Chapter 10, Problem 36A

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The difference between prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells.

Introduction:-

Cells are the basic building blocks of living organisms which provides several functions needed for performing biological processes. Cells provide structure and support, facilitate growth by division, allow passage of molecules through active and passive transport , produce energy , carry out various metabolic reactions and helps in reproduction.

In living organisms, two types of cells are present − prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell.

Explanation of Solution

Prokaryotes are organisms which are single celled while eukaryotes can be single celled or multicellular.

The main differences between prokaryotic cell and eukaryotic cell can be summarized as follows:

A) Nucleus

Prokaryotic cell do not contain a well-defined nucleus but they have a nucleoid region which is membrane less and bears the free- floating DNA.

Eukaryotic cells have a nuclear envelope covered nucleus that consists of two lipid membranes.

B) Chromosomes.

Prokaryotic cells consists of only one circular chromosomes whereas in eukaryotic cells have many chromosomes which undergoes meiosis and mitosis.

C) Organelles

The organelles of a prokaryotic cell is not membrane bound while in eukaryotes bears membrane bound organelles located in the cell’s cytoplasm.

D) Complexity

The prokaryotes are simplified primitive cells whereas the eukaryotes are more evolved and complex.

E)Ribosome

Prokaryotes bear ribosomes which are simpler, smaller in size and lies in the cytosol. In eukaryotic cells, the ribosomes are bigger, more complex and bound by a membrane. Ribosomes are freely scattered and floating throughout the cytoplasm.

F)Reproduction

Prokaryotes reproduces asexually which results in offspring being the exact clone of the parent. Most eukaryotes reproduce sexually.

G) Cell walls

The prokaryotic cells have a rigid cell wall that surrounds the plasma membrane which imparts shape to the organisms. In eukaryotes, plant cells bear cell wall but animal cell do not.

Conclusion

Thus, the prokaryotes and the eukaryotes cells are the two types of cell found in the living world. Prokaryotic cells are more primitive and are represented by bacteria and archaebacteria.

Eukaryotic cells are more evolved and more complex in nature and are animal and plant cells.